Stroller Frame Four-Bar Linkage Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional strollers can only be folded in one way, requiring the handle to be placed at the rear angular position, limiting flexibility in storage and transport.
Innovation Solution
A stroller frame assembly incorporating first and second four-bar linkage mechanisms and a locking system that allows the handle to pivot between frontward and rearward facing positions, enabling folding from either position, with engaging members and a locking mechanism to secure the frame against accidental folding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the handle is placed at the rear angular position for folding, then the stroller can be folded, but the flexibility in storage and transport is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic positioning of the handle through a four-bar linkage mechanism that allows the handle to pivot between frontward and rearward facing positions. The linkage includes a seat support bar, first connecting bar, second connecting bar, and rear leg unit that work together to enable the handle to assume multiple angular positions, transforming a static single-position system into a dynamic multi-position system.
Solution Approach 2:
The folding mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the seat support bar, first connecting bar, second connecting bar, and rear leg unit. Each component has a specific role in enabling the handle to pivot between positions, and the segmentation allows independent optimization of each element while maintaining overall system functionality for multi-position folding.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the handle can pivot between frontward and rearward positions, then folding flexibility is improved, but the risk of accidental folding increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism engages in advance to secure the frame body against folding before any folding action can occur. The locking member is positioned and configured to prevent unintended engagement of the four-bar linkage, thereby preventing accidental folding while maintaining the capability for intentional folding when the lock is released.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism acts as an intermediary between the handle positioning system and the folding mechanism. It mediates between the desire for multi-position flexibility and the need for frame stability by selectively enabling or disabling the folding capability based on whether the lock is engaged or disengaged.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent accidental folding, then frame stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged with the existing four-bar linkage components rather than being added as a completely separate system. The locking member integrates with the seat support bar, first connecting bar, and second connecting bar, utilizing the existing structural elements to provide both the folding mechanism and the locking function, thereby reducing overall complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A stroller frame assembly includes: front and rear leg units; an armrest; a seat support bar disposed below and opposing the armrest; and first and second connecting bars. The first connecting bar cooperates with the armrest, the seat support bar and the front leg unit to form a first four-bar linkage mechanism. The first connecting bar cooperates with the armrest, the second connecting bar and the rear leg unit to form a second four-bar linkage mechanism.